Martino Iemmolo
INTRODUCTION
I often find myself using a soldering iron to work on my projects, and this represents a daily exposure to the risk of developing respiratory diseases.
Even using lead-free solder is not completely safe, for this reason, I embarked on a little side project with the hope of actually building something useful while learning more about 3D modeling at the same time.
DESIGN PHASE
I started to design the extractor unit around an old PC fan that I had lying around in my lab, taking measurements, and then I started sketching a couple of prototypes, trying out different shapes and styles.
It had to be rugged and practical but also relatively compact and appealing to the eye.
I have always been fascinated by retro futuristic design and its relationship with practical geometry that makes every piece look somehow "rightfully" bulky, giving to every detail a real function.
Following these concepts, I started the 3D modelling process with Onshape, gradually learning how all the different tools and functions worked.
In the end I went for an industrial style with military features taking inspiration from artworks that I found online
3D MODELLING
This was my first "serious" project using a 3D printer and involving 3D modeling.
In the past I have designed and printed simple objects with no specific technical requirements such as stencils and a couple of decorative models for gifting.
This time was different, I wanted to design a humble but still hopefully technical tool.
I started working with OnShape mainly because it was free and cloud-based, I quickly became familiar with the main controls and functions, translating all my (wordefully) hand-drawn designs to a virtual 2D sketch that later became an actual 3D model.
Printing plastic for me holds great responsibility.
Every print has its own cost, both in terms of energy consumption and plastic waste, for this reason, I tried to test every part in software before using PLA filament, carefully ensuring clearances and assembly process to avoid any unnecessary print.
I'm constantly looking for more "eco friendly" materials (In particular for compostable ones) but finding myself out of better options for now I have to stick to PLA+, that according to the manifacturer is produced by corn starch. and other organic sources.
For the base I wanted a low profile shape that would ensure good stability too.
I went for a trapezoid with a modified upper surface to make enough space for the circuit case and the control panel designed to follow the base contour as naturally as possible.
The circuit case was specifically designed for the circuit I made on the protoboard.
There are two holes on the sides, they both leave plenty of room for the power and control connectors.
The internal hollow sections allow housing for all the components.
I had to go through a couple of iterations to get the leg model right.
They kept detaching from the printer plate while printing, I later solved the problem by making the end tip wider. I'm also pretty sure this helps the adjusting bolts on the side to get more grip for safer fastening.
This was one of the most satisfying prints of the project because it came out just as I first imagined it.
It is a pivotal part connecting the base to the ventilation and filtering system.
If I had to redesign it, I would make the bolt holes chamfer less deep, leaving more material just to improve structural stability.
Before this print, I did not believe that a commercial 3D printer could make such precise works as the diamond knurl on the side of this bolt, it made me feel like I was working with a lathe instead of an Ender 3.
CIRCUIT
The control circuit...
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